When you embark on a Virgin cruise, one of the first things you might want to clarify is the pricing of drinks on board. Virgin Voyages has cleverly designed their drink pricing structure to suit a variety of preferences and budgets, making it user-friendly without overcomplicating the experience. You won’t find yourself fumbling through a daunting menu with hidden fees lurking in the shadows. Instead, the drink prices are straightforward, allowing you to focus more on enjoying your vacation and less on counting your coins.
The Ultimate Beverage Package
For those who love to indulge, Virgin offers an Ultimate Beverage Package that can truly enhance your cruising experience. This package allows you to enjoy a wide selection of beverages, including cocktails, wines, spirits, and non-alcoholic drinks. Generally, this package is priced around $300 for a week-long cruise, which translates to about $15 per day. If you plan on enjoying multiple drinks throughout your day, this package can be incredibly cost-effective. You’ll be free to sip on your favorite cocktails as you bask in the sun or enjoy a chilled glass of wine during dinner without worrying about the bill piling up.
Individual Drink Prices
If you prefer to pay for your drinks on an individual basis instead of committing to a beverage package, Virgin Voyages has reasonable pricing for single drinks. Cocktails typically range from $10 to $12. If you’re craving a craft beer, you can expect to pay around $7 to $10 per bottle, while wines by the glass are usually priced between $9 and $15. Non-alcoholic beverages, like sodas or bottled water, are generally more affordable, around $3 to $5 each. Knowing these prices can help you budget your spending while enjoying the various drinks offered on board.
Cocktail Choices
Cocktail lovers will appreciate the unique and edgy cocktail menu on Virgin ships. They don’t just serve the standard rum and coke or gin and tonic; rather, they present a refreshing selection of artisanal cocktails crafted by talented mixologists. Think bold flavors and innovative ingredients that make each drink a true experience. Seasonal specialties and artful presentations elevate your drinking experience. Such creativity, however, does come at a price, but many find that the quality and the overall experience justify the splurge.
Specialty Coffee and Teas
For those who prefer warm beverages over cocktails, Virgin Voyages offers a delightful selection of specialty coffees and teas. Whether you fancy a rich espresso, a frothy cappuccino, or a soothing herbal tea, you can expect to pay around $4 to $6 for these warm delights. Many travelers find these drinks a perfect match for their leisurely mornings on deck and appreciate the quality that goes into every cup brewed on board. Plus, sipping your favorite coffee while overlooking scenic views is a magical moment that cannot be missed.
Water and Soft Drinks
Staying hydrated is crucial, especially when you’re at sea and soaking up the sun. Virgin Voyages provides complimentary still and sparkling water during meals, so make sure to take advantage of that. For soft drinks, you can purchase sodas for about $3 each. Another option is to bring your soda package if you think you’ll go through more than a reasonable daily allowance. Virgin encourages staying refreshed, so it’s crucial to know your options when it comes to non-alcoholic beverages.
Happy Hour Specials
While exploring the drink menu, don’t forget to ask about happy hour specials. Many cruise lines, including Virgin, occasionally run promotions with discounted drinks during specific times of the day. These can offer you substantial savings, especially if you enjoy indulging in cocktails or wine while socializing with fellow travelers. Keeping an eye out for these specials can help enhance your budget, allowing you to enjoy more with less.
Tipping on Drinks
It’s also essential to remember to factor in gratuity when considering drink prices. While tipping isn’t mandatory, it’s appreciated, and when you’re enjoying a cocktail at the bar, a rule of thumb is to tip around 15-20% of your total bill. Many travelers choose to add tips to their bills, especially when they receive excellent service. Virgin’s crew is known for their attentive service, so a well-deserved tip goes a long way in showing appreciation for their hard work.
Drink Packages for Groups
If you’re traveling in a larger group, you might consider discussing the possibilities of a shared drink package. Although Virgin tends to promote individual usage, coordinating with others to share a package can sometimes yield extra savings, particularly if you anticipate a heavy cocktail night. Be sure to double-check the terms and conditions of the beverage package to ensure everyone understands how the arrangement works, as Virgin is fundamentally geared toward individual purchases.
The Experience Matters
Overall, it’s important to consider the quality of your drink and your overall onboard experience rather than just the price tag. Sons of Anarchy-themed bars, mid-century cocktail lounges, and rooftop spaces add to the ambiance and enhance every sip. The focus isn’t just about what’s in your glass but how the experience contributes to your journey. Enjoying a delicious drink while mingling with fellow travelers or dancing the night away with your favorite cocktail in hand creates lasting memories that resonate long after the cruise is over.
Bottom Line on Drink Prices
In conclusion, knowing how much drinks cost on Virgin Cruises can help you plan your budget effectively while ensuring you enjoy your time at sea. Whether opting for the Ultimate Beverage Package, choosing individual drinks, or capitalizing on special offers, Virgin’s drink pricing caters to a wide range of preferences. By keeping an eye on drink specials and being mindful of what you’re ordering, you can savor the moments that matter—all while enjoying a drink in hand as you sail through breathtaking destinations. So raise a glass, revel in your surroundings, and let the good times roll!
